In December 2024, our From the Centre to the Periphery project officially launched with the first in our Periphery Speaks event series at the Museum of Making in Derby—one of the 12 areas that took part in the UK government’s Opportunity Areas programme.
The launch brought together key stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, local leaders, and young people to share reflections on the OA programme and discuss the challenges and opportunities in delivering place-based approaches to education and skills. Themes ranged from the importance of long-term, preventative action and community partnerships, to questions of devolution and the sustainability of collaborative networks.
This event marked the start of our three-year evaluation of the OA programme, funded by the ESRC and led by the Universities of Bath, Bristol, and Durham. The project aims to generate insights that can shape future education and labour market initiatives, including the ongoing Priority Education Investment Areas.
You can read the full launch blog—which explores the key themes and debates in detail—here. This is one of the first
Stay tuned for updates as our evaluation unfolds, and for opportunities to get involved in the conversation. Read more about our evaluation approach.
